Just because a buyer seeks a car offering excellent performance and acceleration, it doesn’t mean they should miss out on a few of life’s luxuries. That will be the case for the person buying this 1971 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 454. Not only should its fresh big-block pin them in the seat, but the list of optional extras should provide an enjoyable classic motoring experience. It needs plenty of TLC, but its minimal rust problems make it a prime candidate for anyone considering a DIY restoration. The SS is listed here on Craigslist in Dixon, Missouri. You could potentially fly in and drive it home for $14,000. A big thank you goes to Barn Finder Gunter K for spotting this potent project.

This Monte Carlo is an example of why you should never judge a book by its cover. Its Cottonwood Green paint is way beyond its best, and a repaint will undoubtedly form part of this restoration. However, closer examination reveals numerous positive attributes that will tempt some people. The panels sport a few bumps and bruises, but none look particularly bad. The big news is its essentially solid nature. The exterior shows no evidence of anything beyond some spots of surface corrosion, while the same is true of most of this classic’s underside. Once again, there is corrosion, but the floors have no penetrating rust. The trunk pan is the only weak spot, but with replacement pans retailing for around $290, returning this SS to a rust-free state shouldn’t break the bank. The bumpers will benefit from a trip to the platers, but the remaining trim and glass look fine.

This Monte Carlo is 1-of-1,919 examples of the SS 454 produced in 1971. This model year also signaled the end of the line of the SS 454 option as part of the Monte Carlo range, although its big-block would remain available on other variants until 1975. The V8 should produce 365hp, which feeds to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission. This car also scores power assistance for the steering and brakes. With an overall weight of 3,882lbs, the SS 454 was considered relatively heavy compared to classic muscle cars, although part of this could be attributed to the company’s focus on luxury. That doesn’t mean this is an automotive slug because any car from this era capable of storming the ¼ mile in 15.2 seconds deserves respect. I would love to reveal this car as numbers-matching, but the original motor is gone. However, the seller filled its space with a fresh and healthy 454 that runs well. They didn’t stop there because they replaced the front suspension, the entire braking system, and the tires. It runs and drives well, and it seems its only mechanical weakness is that the original fuel tank made way for a temporary plastic unit. The new owner could potentially drive it home, but they would do it in short hops due to the limited range of the existing tank. That means taking a trailer with their cash may be a wise strategy.

The consistent presentation of this classic continues when we open the doors and inspect its interior. Most of the upholstered surfaces are trashed, as is the carpet. The most cost-effective approach would be for the new owner to source an interior trim kit. At around $2,600, they are not a cheap investment. However, kits in this price range contain almost everything required to return the inside of this classic to a factory-fresh state. Examining the photos reveals the radio may be the only missing item, leaving the buyer to source an original or opt for something more modern. The luxury touches inside this classic should make the motoring experience pretty pleasant. The SS features air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power driver’s seat, a console with the ultra-cool horseshoe shifter, and a remote driver’s mirror.

The sale price for this 1971 Monte Carlo SS 454 means many readers will feel it sneaks into the affordable category for a project build. Addressing its rust issues shouldn’t break the bank, and a competent buyer could tackle many of its shortcomings in a home workshop. The loss of its original big-block will negatively impact its potential value, but the comprehensive list of luxury touches may offset that factor. Fully restored, there’s no reason why it couldn’t command a value beyond $35,000 in the current market. Considering the asking price, that leaves some room to move on the build before the financial viability becomes questionable. It has only been on the market for less than a day, and I won’t be surprised if a buyer emerges very quickly.